At 1330 this afternoon the leading yachts competing in the Artemis Challenge and the Class Zero boats, also racing round the island, were continuing to enjoy the superb conditions round the back of the Isle of Wight.

The wind has steadily increased throughout the day and the leader of the Artemis Challenge – Estrella Damm – was making her way up the south-coast of the island with Sam Davies on Roxy in second place and Artemis with Jonny Malbon at the helm in third. In fourth place was Akena Verandas with Arnaud Boissieres at the helm.

The remaining boats in the fleet are the two oldies Mirabaud and Spirit of Weymouth. Chatting from the boat Louay Habib aboard Spirit of Weymouth commented: “It’s absolutely glorious. We’re halfway round the island now still enjoying a good 15kts of breeze sailing upwind towards Bembridge. But the best bit is the close race we’re having with Mirabaud.”

The leaders are now approaching the forts and should cross the Squadron finish line within the next hour.

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